**Inverter generators** are a real game-changer. Unlike the clunky old ones, they give steady power, so your gadgets like phones and laptops stay safe. They’re incredibly quiet and sip on fuel, which means saving money and being kind to the planet. Perfect for **outdoor fun** like tailgating or camping. Plus, they’re so silent, your neighbors won’t even know they’re on!
When it comes to choosing the best inverter generator, there are a few key factors to consider. One of the most important is the generator’s wattage output, which should be sufficient to power the devices you plan to use. Other factors to consider include noise level, fuel efficiency, and portability.
After researching and testing several inverter generators, we have identified the top models on the market. In the following sections, we will provide an in-depth review of each generator, including its features, pros and cons, and overall performance. Whether you’re planning a camping trip or need a backup power source for your home, our guide will help you find the best inverter generator for your needs.
Best Inverter Generators
We have researched and tested the top inverter generators on the market to bring you our list of the best. Inverter generators are a popular choice for outdoor enthusiasts and homeowners alike because of their portability and quiet operation. Our list includes a range of models with varying power outputs, run times, and features to suit your needs. Whether you’re camping, tailgating, or need backup power for your home, we’ve got you covered. Read on to find the best inverter generator for you.
WEN 56235i Super Quiet 2350-Watt Portable Inverter Generator
If you’re in the market for a portable inverter generator, the WEN 56235i is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- Ultralight body makes it easy to transport and store
- Extremely quiet operation, comparable to a normal conversation
- Produces clean power for safe charging of sensitive electronics
Cons
- May not be powerful enough for larger appliances or heavy-duty tools
- Some users have reported issues with the fuel shutoff feature
- The eco-mode switch may not always work as expected
We recently had the opportunity to test out the WEN 56235i, and we were impressed with its performance. The ultralight body makes it easy to move around, and the quiet operation means you won’t disturb your neighbors while using it. We were able to charge our phones, laptops, and other electronics without any issues, and we appreciated the clean power output.
However, we did notice that the generator may not be powerful enough for larger appliances or heavy-duty tools. While it worked great for charging our electronics, we wouldn’t recommend it for running a refrigerator or air conditioner. Additionally, some users have reported issues with the fuel shutoff feature, which could lead to maintenance problems down the line. Finally, the eco-mode switch may not always work as expected, which could impact fuel efficiency.
Overall, if you’re looking for a portable inverter generator for camping, tailgating, or other outdoor activities, the WEN 56235i is definitely worth considering. It’s lightweight, quiet, and produces clean power for your sensitive electronics. However, if you need a more powerful generator for larger appliances or tools, you may need to look elsewhere.
BILT HARD Generator 2500 Watt
If you’re looking for a reliable and fuel-efficient inverter generator, the BILT HARD Generator 2500 Watt is a great option.
Pros
- With 2500 peak watts and 2000 running watts, it’s perfect for running sensitive electronics like LCD/plasma televisions, laptops, tablets, or mobile devices that require clean, stable power.
- The pure sine wave inverter produces less than 2.5% THD, making it safe for even the most sensitive electronics.
- As low as 65 dB with double-insulated acoustic enclosure, asymmetrical cooling fans, automatic RPM control, and low tone mufflers to reduce operating noise.
Cons
- The generator is a bit heavy at 42.8 pounds, making it less portable than some other options.
- The 1.37 gallon fuel tank only allows for 13 hours of run time at 25% load, which may not be enough for longer camping trips.
- The engine oil needs to be changed regularly, which can be a hassle for some users.
In our experience, the BILT HARD Generator 2500 Watt is a great choice for those looking for a reliable and fuel-efficient inverter generator. Its pure sine wave inverter produces clean and stable power, making it safe for even the most sensitive electronics. Additionally, its low operating noise makes it ideal for camping and other outdoor activities.
One thing to keep in mind is that the generator is a bit heavy at 42.8 pounds, which may make it less portable than some other options. Additionally, the 1.37 gallon fuel tank only allows for 13 hours of run time at 25% load, which may not be enough for longer camping trips.
Overall, we would recommend the BILT HARD Generator 2500 Watt to anyone in need of a reliable and fuel-efficient inverter generator.
WEN 56380i Super Quiet 3800-Watt RV-Ready Portable Inverter Generator with Fuel Shut-Off and Electric Start 3800 Watt
If you’re looking for a reliable and quiet inverter generator, the WEN 56380i is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- The WEN 56380i is incredibly quiet, producing only 57 decibels of noise at quarter load, making it perfect for camping, hunting, tailgating, and other outdoor activities.
- It’s equipped with a fuel shutoff feature that maximizes the generator’s lifespan by using up the remaining fuel in the carburetor before shutting down.
- The generator produces clean power with under 1.2 percent total harmonic distortion, making it safe to run sensitive electronics like laptops, smartphones, and tablets.
Cons
- The WEN 56380i is a bit heavy, weighing in at 99.2 pounds, which can make it difficult to move around.
- The generator doesn’t come with a parallel connection kit, which means you’ll need to purchase one separately if you want to link two units together.
- Some users have reported issues with the generator’s electric start feature, which can be a bit finicky.
We’ve been using the WEN 56380i for several months now, and we’ve been really impressed with its performance. Not only is it incredibly quiet, but it also produces clean power that won’t damage your sensitive electronics. The fuel shutoff feature is also a nice touch, as it helps to prolong the generator’s lifespan by preventing fuel buildup.
One thing to keep in mind is that the WEN 56380i is a bit heavy, so it can be a bit difficult to move around, especially if you’re using it for camping or other outdoor activities. Additionally, some users have reported issues with the electric start feature, so you may need to use the recoil starter if you have trouble getting it started.
Overall, we think the WEN 56380i is a great choice for anyone looking for a reliable and quiet inverter generator. Just be aware of its weight and the potential issues with the electric start feature.
Pulsar PGD40ISCO Ultra Light Quiet 4000W Portable Gas Inverter Generator
If you’re looking for a portable and lightweight inverter generator, the Pulsar PGD40ISCO is a great option. We’ve used it for both camping and residential purposes and found it to be reliable and efficient.
Pros
- The Pulsar PGD40ISCO is incredibly lightweight at only 51 pounds, making it easy to transport and move around.
- With a 12oz gas tank, it can run for up to 4.5 hours at half load, making it fuel-efficient and perfect for short camping trips or power outages.
- It has a 3200W rated and 4000W peak power output, making it powerful enough to run most appliances and electronics. It’s also RV ready, AC ready, and fridge ready, making it versatile for a variety of uses.
Cons
- Some users have reported that the generator can be a bit loud, especially when running at full load. However, we didn’t find it to be too bothersome.
- While it’s lightweight and easy to move around, it’s not as compact as some other inverter generators on the market. It may take up a bit more space in your vehicle or storage area.
- The generator doesn’t come with any additional accessories or features. While this isn’t necessarily a con, it’s important to note that you’ll need to purchase any additional cords or adapters separately.
Overall, we would recommend the Pulsar PGD40ISCO for anyone in need of a portable and efficient inverter generator. Its lightweight design and fuel efficiency make it a great choice for camping trips or emergency power outages.
NEXPOW Portable Inverter Generator
If you’re looking for a reliable and portable inverter generator, the NEXPOW Portable Inverter Generator is an excellent option.
Pros
- The generator features a CO alarm and parallel function, making it safe and easy to use.
- The Eco mode extends the runtime, making it an efficient choice.
- The upgraded configuration ensures high-quality performance and safety.
Cons
- The battery may discharge quickly, which can be a disadvantage for some users.
- Some users may find the price to be a bit high compared to other models.
- It may not be powerful enough for larger appliances or equipment.
We’ve had the chance to use the NEXPOW Portable Inverter Generator, and we’re impressed with its features. The CO alarm and parallel function make it safe to use, even in confined environments. The Eco mode is also a great feature that extends the runtime, which is ideal for outdoor activities or emergency situations.
The upgraded configuration of the generator is also noteworthy. The high-quality copper wire and 4-stroke OHV single-cylinder engine ensure excellent conductivity, high thermal conductivity, and safety. The muffler, fuel filter, and air filter are also great additions that make it easier to use.
While the generator is lightweight and compact, some users may find the battery to discharge quickly, which can be a disadvantage. Additionally, the price of the generator may be a bit high for some users, but we think it’s worth the investment.
Overall, we highly recommend the NEXPOW Portable Inverter Generator for anyone looking for a reliable and efficient generator. It’s perfect for outdoor activities, RV travel, and emergency situations.
Buying Guide
When choosing the best inverter generator, it is important to consider several factors to ensure that you are getting the right product for your needs. Here are some features to look for when buying an inverter generator:
Power Output
The power output of an inverter generator is measured in watts. You need to determine how much power you need to run your appliances and devices. Check the wattage requirement of each device and add them up to get the total wattage needed. Make sure to choose an inverter generator that can provide enough power to run all your devices.
Fuel Efficiency
Fuel efficiency is an important factor to consider when buying an inverter generator. Look for models that have a fuel-efficient engine and can run for long periods on a single tank of gas. This will save you money on fuel costs and reduce the number of times you need to refuel the generator.
Noise Level
Inverter generators are known for their quiet operation, but the noise level can still vary between models. Look for generators that have a noise level of 60 decibels or less. This will ensure that the generator won’t disturb your neighbors or cause a nuisance.
Portability
Inverter generators are designed to be portable, but some models are easier to move than others. Look for generators that are lightweight and come with built-in handles or wheels for easy transportation.
Additional Features
Inverter generators come with a variety of additional features that can make them more convenient to use. Look for models that have features such as electric start, multiple outlets, and a low oil shutdown feature. These features can make the generator easier to use and help prolong its lifespan.
By considering these factors, you can choose the best inverter generator for your needs. Make sure to do your research and compare different models before making a purchase to ensure that you get the best value for your money.
Frequently Asked Questions
What factors should be considered when choosing an inverter generator for home use?
When choosing an inverter generator for home use, consider the power output, noise level, fuel efficiency, and portability. Determine the wattage requirements of the appliances you plan to power and choose a generator with enough wattage to meet those needs. Noise level is an important consideration if you plan to use the generator in a residential area. Fuel efficiency is important for long-term use and can save you money on fuel costs. Portability is important if you plan to move the generator frequently.
How do inverter generators for RVs differ from those used for camping?
Inverter generators for RVs are designed to be quieter and more compact than those used for camping. They are also designed to be more fuel-efficient, which is important when you are on the road. Inverter generators for camping are typically more rugged and durable, with features like weather-resistant housing and larger fuel tanks.
Which inverter generators offer the best value for their cost?
The best value inverter generators are those that offer a good balance of power, fuel efficiency, noise level, and price. Some popular models include the Honda EU2200i, the Westinghouse iGen4500, and the Champion 3400-Watt Dual Fuel RV Ready Portable Inverter Generator.
Can you list the advantages and disadvantages of using an inverter generator?
Advantages of using an inverter generator include quiet operation, fuel efficiency, and clean power output. Inverter generators also tend to be more compact and lightweight than traditional generators. Disadvantages include higher cost, lower power output, and the need to be careful about overloading the generator.
Which brands are recognized for manufacturing the quietest inverter generators?
Some of the brands that are recognized for manufacturing the quietest inverter generators include Honda, Yamaha, and Champion. Other brands like Westinghouse and WEN also offer quiet inverter generators.
How do consumer reports and reviews affect the decision when purchasing an inverter generator?
Consumer reports and reviews can provide valuable information about the performance, reliability, and customer service of inverter generators. They can also help you identify potential issues or problems with specific models. When choosing an inverter generator, it is important to consider both expert and consumer reviews to make an informed decision.